Ready to reel in some of Charleston's best inshore action? Salty Angler Fishing Charters has you covered with our Extended Half-Day trip. We're talking six full hours on the water, targeting everything from hefty redfish to sneaky seatrout. Whether you're a seasoned angler or just getting your feet wet, this trip is the perfect way to experience the rich fishery of the Lowcountry. Let's dive into what makes this outing a can't-miss for anyone looking to wet a line in Charleston.
When you step aboard with Salty Angler, you're in for a treat. Our extended half-day trip gives you plenty of time to explore the diverse inshore waters around Charleston. We'll hit prime spots for redfish, seatrout, black sea bass, and sheepshead. Your guide knows these waters like the back of their hand, so you'll be fishing the honey holes where the big ones lurk. We provide all the gear you need, from rods and reels to bait and licenses. All you need to bring is your sense of adventure and maybe a snack or two. With room for up to six anglers, it's perfect for a family outing or a day out with your fishing buddies.
On this trip, we'll use a mix of tried-and-true inshore fishing techniques. Depending on the species we're after and the conditions, we might be sight-casting to tailing redfish in the flats, working soft plastics for trout along oyster beds, or dropping live bait for black sea bass near structure. Your guide will show you the ropes, from how to present your bait to setting the hook when you feel that telltale thump. We'll adjust our tactics throughout the day to maximize your chances of a stellar catch. It's not just about catching fish; it's about honing your skills and learning techniques you can use long after your trip ends.
Don't just take our word for it. Here's what some of our recent anglers had to say about their experiences:
"This was my first Saltwater fishing experience and Captain Mike made sure it was a memorable one. He was very knowledgeable and patient with his instructions. He made sure that you got the most out of fishing experience. I would recommend him to anyone that would like an enjoyable and memorable fishing experience!!!!!!" - Clemson
"Captain Mike really worked well with our group and put us on a lot of great fish. We would absolutely recommend Captain Mike to anyone!" - Chris
"We enjoyed this trip so much!!! Mike is a great captain with such great hospitality!!! He kept us in fish. He was very knowledgeable about the area and where to fish. We will come back to fish with him again!!!!" - Misty
Let's talk about the stars of the show – the fish you'll be targeting on this trip. Charleston's inshore waters are teeming with a variety of sought-after species, each offering its own unique challenge and reward.
Redfish: Also known as red drum, these copper-colored beauties are a favorite among Charleston anglers. They can range from "rat reds" of just a few pounds to bull reds topping 40 inches. Redfish are known for their powerful runs and stubborn fights. In the warmer months, you might spot them tailing in shallow water, presenting an exciting sight-fishing opportunity. Their peak season is typically late summer through fall, but you can catch them year-round in Charleston.
Seatrout: Spotted seatrout, or "specks" as locals call them, are prized for their delicate flavor and the challenge they present to anglers. These wily fish are most active in the cooler months, from fall through spring. They love to hang around oyster beds and creek mouths, often striking topwater lures in spectacular fashion. While most trout caught are in the 2-3 pound range, gator trout over 5 pounds are not uncommon in Charleston waters.
Black Sea Bass: Don't let their small size fool you – black sea bass pack a punch for their weight. These structure-loving fish are abundant around Charleston's nearshore reefs and wrecks. They're aggressive feeders and make for great eating. The best action for sea bass is typically in the cooler months, from late fall through early spring. While most are in the 1-2 pound range, trophy sea bass over 5 pounds are possible.
Sheepshead: With their distinctive black and white stripes and sheep-like teeth, these fish are as fun to catch as they are to look at. Sheepshead are notorious bait stealers, making them a true test of an angler's skills. They love structure, so we'll target them around pilings, bridges, and oyster beds. The biggest sheepshead, sometimes called "convict fish," can top 10 pounds. They're most active in the cooler months but can be caught year-round with the right tactics.
Black Drum: Often overlooked by anglers focused on their flashier cousin, the redfish, black drum are a worthy target in their own right. These bottom-feeders can grow to impressive sizes, with some topping 50 pounds in inshore waters. They're most active in the spring and fall, but can be caught year-round. Black drum are known for their powerful, dogged fights and make excellent table fare when caught in the smaller "puppy drum" sizes.
What sets our Extended Half-Day trip apart? It's all about giving you the time and opportunity to really experience Charleston's inshore fishing scene. Six hours on the water means we're not rushed – we can try different spots, experiment with techniques, and adjust our strategy based on what the fish are doing. Our seasoned guides don't just put you on fish; they share their knowledge, helping you become a better angler with every cast.
The diversity of species we target keeps things interesting. One minute you might be sight-casting to redfish in the shallows, the next you're dropping baits for black sea bass near a wreck. It's this variety that keeps our regulars coming back season after season. Plus, with all gear provided and licenses covered, it's a hassle-free way to experience some of the best fishing the Lowcountry has to offer.
Ready to experience the best of Charleston's inshore fishing? Our Extended Half-Day trip is calling your name. Whether you're looking to bend a rod on some hard-fighting redfish, outsmart a crafty seatrout, or fill the cooler with tasty sea bass, this trip delivers. With expert guidance, top-notch gear, and some of the most productive waters in the Southeast at your fingertips, you're in for a day you won't soon forget.
Don't let another fishing season slip by without getting in on the action. Spots fill up fast, especially during peak seasons, so don't wait to book. Grab your fishing buddy, round up the family, or come solo – we've got room for up to six anglers to join in on the fun. Make your reservation now and get ready to create some lasting memories on the waters of Charleston. Trust us, the only thing you'll regret is not booking sooner. See you on the water!
October 9, 2024
This was my first Saltwater fishing experience and Captain Mike made sure it was a memorable one. He was very knowledgeable and patient with his instructions. He made sure that you got the most out of fishing experience. I would recommend him to anyone that would like an enjoyable and memorable fishing experience!!!!!!
April 18, 2025
Captain Mike really worked well with our group and put us on a lot of great fish. We would absolutely recommend Captain Mike to anyone!
March 20, 2025
Had a great day on the water. And learned a few things about fishing from Mike. Also loved how he was hands on with the kids. I will definitely be booking another trip soon.
March 25, 2025
We enjoyed this trip so much!!! Mike is a great captain with such great hospitality!!! He kept us in fish. He was very knowledgeable about the area and where to fish. We will come back to fish with him again!!!!
November 4, 2023
Black Drum are hefty fighters that'll test your gear. Most run 5-30 pounds, but big ones can top 90 pounds. You'll find them in shallow, brackish waters around oyster beds, mudflats, and pier pilings. Spring is prime time as they school up to spawn. Anglers love Black Drum for their powerful runs and unique drumming sound. To land one, use fresh crab or shrimp on a circle hook. Fish it on the bottom and be patient - they're notorious bait stealers. Here's a local trick: crush some mussels and toss them in the water to create a chum slick. This'll bring the drum right to you. Just keep in mind, the bigger ones over 15 pounds can get tough and less tasty. The smaller "puppy drum" are best for the dinner table, with a mild, flaky meat that's great blackened or fried.
Black Sea Bass are a popular inshore target here in Charleston. These chunky fish typically run 1-4 pounds, though you might hook into an 8-pounder if you're lucky. Look for them around structure like jetties, piers, and wrecks in 30-120 feet of water. Late spring through summer is prime time as they move inshore to spawn. Anglers love targeting them for their strong fight and excellent table fare. To catch one, use a medium-weight rod with 20-30 lb line and bottom fish with squid or cut bait near structure. A local tip - try jigging a bucktail tipped with squid strip for bigger bass. Just be ready to pull them away from the structure quickly once hooked. The meat is white, flaky and delicious, making Black Sea Bass a favorite for fish tacos or simply grilled with lemon.
Redfish, or Red Drum, are the crown jewel of Charleston inshore fishing. Most "slot" reds run 3-8 pounds, but bulls over 40 inches aren't uncommon. You'll find them tailing in shallow grass flats, around oyster beds, and in creek mouths. They're here year-round, but fall is prime time when big schools flood the flats. Anglers love Redfish for their powerful runs and their distinctive tail spot. To catch one, try sight fishing with live mullet or crabs. Or throw artificial lures like gold spoons or scented soft plastics. Here's a local tip: on hot summer days, look for reds "tailing" in super shallow water during high tide. Cast well ahead of them and slowly drag your bait into their path. The meat is firm and flavorful, great for blackening or grilling on the half shell.
Sea Trout, also called Speckled Trout, are a favorite inshore target here. Most run 1-3 pounds, but gators over 5 pounds aren't uncommon. You'll find them in grass flats, creek mouths, and around oyster bars. They're active year-round, but fall and spring are prime as they follow bait migrations. Anglers love Sea Trout for their aggressive strikes and delicate flavor. To catch them, try live shrimp under a popping cork or artificial lures like soft plastics and topwaters. Here's a local secret: fish the tide changes, especially the last of the outgoing tide. That's when trout stack up in deeper holes waiting to ambush bait. Just remember, they have soft mouths, so set the hook gently. The meat is mild and flaky, perfect for a quick pan fry with some lemon and herbs.
Sheepshead are one of the trickiest fish to catch, but that's what makes them fun. These striped "convict fish" typically run 1-8 pounds and love hanging around structure. You'll find them near docks, bridges, and oyster beds. They're here year-round, but winter and early spring are best as they school up to spawn. Anglers target them for their crafty bait-stealing skills and excellent table fare. To catch one, you need patience and a sensitive touch. Use a small, sharp hook with fiddler crab, barnacles, or oysters. Here's a pro tip: when you feel the lightest tap, count to three before setting the hook. That gives them time to get the bait in their mouth past those notorious teeth. The meat is sweet and flaky, similar to triggerfish. Just be careful of the sharp fins when cleaning them.
Vehicle Guest Capacity: 6
Manufacturer Name: Suzuki
Maximum Cruising Speed: 30
Number of Engines: 1
Horsepower per Engine: 250
Great guide. Very enjoyable trip